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Time to slap on the BROCCOLI?

Before heading out in the sun, most people apply a bit of sunscreen to their exposed skin.

However, a new study suggests that broccoli could be just as effective. When rubbed directly into the skin, broccoli could also reduce the chance of a person developing skin cancer, the researchers believe.

Dr Dickinson said: ‘We're searching for better methods to prevent skin cancer in formats that are affordable and manageable for public use.’

According to the team, the green vegetable contains a compound called sulforaphane which could help prevent skin cancer. Sulforaphane is not only highly effective at inhibiting cancer-causing pathways - such as the AP-1 protein - it also triggers chemoprotective genes. These genes protect healthy tissue from the toxic effects of the chemotherapy drugs that are used to combat cancerous growths.

Dr Dickinson said: ‘Sulforaphane may be an excellent candidate for use in the prevention of skin cancer caused by exposure to ultraviolet rays.